A bill for an act relating to the operation of an all-terrain vehicle modified to carry an additional person as a passenger.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Carter Nordman

Bill HF 540 allows modified ATVs in Iowa to legally carry one extra passenger, enhancing recreational use while ensuring safety through specific modification standards.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 697.

#all-terrainvehicles #passengers

Purpose and Intent

Bill HF 540, introduced on February 20, 2025, aims to amend existing regulations regarding the operation of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in Iowa. The primary intent of the bill is to allow for the legal operation of modified ATVs that can carry one additional passenger, thereby expanding the usability of these vehicles for recreational and agricultural purposes.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following significant changes to current law:

Modification Allowance: It allows operators of ATVs that have been modified to carry one additional passenger, provided that:

The modification is either an aftermarket product or an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) product.
The modification is specifically designed to accommodate a passenger on the type of ATV to which it is secured.
The product must be manufactured for commercial sale.

Exemption from Passenger Limit: Under current law, operators are prohibited from carrying more passengers than the ATV was originally designed for, unless they are using the ATV as part of a farm operation. This bill creates an exception for modified ATVs, allowing them to legally carry one additional person.

Penalties: Violating the existing passenger limit is classified as a simple misdemeanor, with a scheduled fine of $135. This bill would modify the enforcement of this penalty for those operating modified ATVs within the new guidelines.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- ATV Operators: Individuals who own and operate ATVs, particularly those who wish to carry an additional passenger legally.
- Manufacturers and Retailers: Companies that produce or sell aftermarket modifications or OEM products designed for ATVs.
- Farmers: Those who use ATVs as part of their agricultural operations may benefit from the expanded passenger capacity.

Legislative Timeline

February 20, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Transportation Committee.

February 24, 2025: Subcommittee formed, consisting of members Siegrist, Behn, and Gosa.

February 25, 2025: Subcommittee meeting held to discuss the bill.

February 26, 2025:

Subcommittee recommends passage.
Committee report recommending passage is issued.
Committee vote results: 20 in favor, 0 against, 1 excused.

February 28, 2025: Committee report approving the bill, renumbered as HF 697.

Conclusion

Bill HF 540 (HF 697) represents a significant shift in the regulation of ATV operations in Iowa, providing a legal framework for modified ATVs to carry an additional passenger. This change is expected to enhance the recreational use of ATVs while maintaining safety standards through specific modification requirements. The bill is currently progressing through the legislative process, having received favorable recommendations from relevant committees.

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